Lando Norris and Max Verstappen slam ‘worst ever’ F1 cars at Australian GP
Lando Norris and Max Verstappen have led the criticism of Formula 1’s new cars following a difficult debut qualifying session at the Australian Grand Prix.
The sport’s new regulation era began in Melbourne but was immediately met with savage feedback regarding the drivability of the 2026 machinery.
Drivers expressed frustration after a qualifying hour that many felt failed to showcase the future of the sport.
Norris, the defending world champion, described the vehicles as the “worst” he has experienced during his time on the grid.
“We’ve come from the best cars ever made in Formula 1 and the nicest to drive to probably the worst,” said Norris.
“It sucks, but you have to live with it and just maximise what you get given. It’s certainly different. It’s certainly not like it was last year.”
Power unit problems
While the aerodynamic aesthetics of the new generation have been praised, the frustration stems from the overhauled power units.
New regulations demand a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power, forcing drivers to manage battery levels extensively.
This focus on energy management often comes at the expense of cornering speed and overall rhythm.
Footage from Friday practice showed cars losing power at full throttle on straights as hybrid systems switched to energy recovery modes.
These increased electrical elements were pivotal in persuading Audi to enter the sport as a manufacturer but remain unpopular in the cockpit.
‘No emotion’ in driving
Verstappen was equally scathing about the experience, suggesting he felt “no emotion” inside the car throughout the weekend.
The four-time title holder has previously hinted he would walk away from Formula 1 if the enjoyment factor disappeared.
“I am not having fun at all driving them,” Verstappen said.
The Red Bull driver had previously compared the handling of the new machinery to the all-electric Formula E series “on steroids”.
Norris, who secured the final title of the previous ground-effect era in 2025, struggled to find any positives when questioned by the media.
When asked if there was any aspect of the new car he enjoyed, the Briton paused for several seconds before simply replying: “No, not really.”
